I would like to nominate Cole for the DAISY Award because of the extraordinary care he provided my mother during her hospitalization. My mom was transferred there from Del Rio and admitted to the hospital. The moment she arrived, every nurse we encountered was kind and professional, but he stood out in a way that made a lasting impression on both my mom and me. He had a way of making my mom feel like she was his only patient. She never had to wait for care, and every interaction was calm, attentive, and genuine. His bedside manner went far beyond what we expected. He didn’t just check on her. He truly cared for her. That made an overwhelming situation manageable and safe, which impressed me even more when I was watching him teach another nurse while caring for my mom. I’m an educator myself, so I paid close attention to his patience, clarity, and kindness while guiding the new nurse, which was exceptional.

Cole never rushed, never spoke down, and never made anyone feel uncomfortable for learning. Instead, he created an environment of confidence and safety for the new nurse, my mom, and me as her daughter. One moment that truly captured who he is happened while my mom was in analysis; the cafeteria delivered her lunch straight to the room, but he knew she hadn’t eaten yet, so he personally brought her meal to her dialysis so she wouldn’t miss it. It was such a small act, but it spoke volumes about his awareness and compassion.

On her second day, when my mom saw that he was her nurse again, she was genuinely happy and relieved. She said she knew she was in good hands. As a family member, there’s no greater comfort than knowing the person you love feels safe, respected, and cared for. He didn’t just provide excellent nursing care; he created trust, comfort, and peace during a very difficult time, and he embodied everything that the DAISY Award represents. I am deeply grateful for the difference he made in our experience. Cole consistently demonstrated the highest standards of professional nursing practice, combining clinical excellence with exceptional compassion, and his care had a profound and lasting impact on my mother‘s experience and our family’s confidence in her treatment.